Alejo Sicat Cayanan's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, Alejo S. Cayanan, who peacefully passed away on May 31, 2025, at the age of 75. Alejo touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity.
Born on July 3, he is one of six children of Francisco and Susana Cayanan. He grew up in Pampanga, Philippines, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep love for his family.
A loving and devoted husband to Eleanor Eusebio Cayanan, Alejo was a pillar of strength and support for his family. He never left the house without her by his side. They did everything together. Together they raised a lovely daughter, Irma Cayanan Toal. He was a devoted father, always there to offer guidance, love, and unwavering support. He cherished family gatherings, and his presence at holidays and celebrations brought warmth and joy to those around him. He also treasured his favorite and only granddaughter, Abigail, who he called “Princess #1”. They were nearly inseparable and often heard singing their favorite songs together.
Alejo proudly served in the United States Navy for 20 years. Among his deployments included Vietnam and Desert Storm. Alejo had many passions in life, including learning, reading, exercising, and bowling, but none more than his love of tennis. One of his greatest joys was teaching Abigail to play the game, unable to hide the beaming pride and excitement on his face when Abigail returned a volley.
Post-retirement from the U.S. Navy, Alejo furthered his education and completed his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from California State University, Hayward (now California State University, East Bay) in 1996. During this time, he worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture from 1988 - 1999. Then, he worked for the Oakland Children’s Hospital until 2018, retiring permanently from employment.
Alejo was a man of few words, preferring to express his deep love and commitment through actions. Though he may not have always voiced his feelings, his family always knew they were cherished, protected, heard, and loved unconditionally. He found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life: to be with his wife, the solitude of exercising in his courtyard, the rustle of leaves working in his yard, and reading a good spy novel.
He is survived by his loving wife, Eleanor, daughter and son-in-law, Irma and Randall Toal, and granddaughter, Abigail Toal. He is also survived by his siblings, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.
Rest in peace, dear husband, father, grandfather, kuya, uncle, and friend. Your memory will live on in our hearts forever.
Memorial Service
Chapel of the Chimes Funeral Home
32992 Mission Blvd, Hayward, CA 94544
Friday, June 20, 2025
5pm - 9pm
Catholic Funeral Mass
Our Lady of Good Counsel Church
2500 Bermuda Ave, San Leandro, CA 94577
Saturday, June 21, 2025
12pm - 1pm
Final interment to follow at Chapel of the Chimes Memorial Park
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